The trouble, I imagine, many of the 1 600-odd current South African Toyota 86 owners face is in answering Toyota’s call to “go play” with finding a suitable playground.
Two years since its introduction, the 86 continues to appeal to those yearning for the purity of the driving experience rather that a Fast and Furious-style wheel-spin-managing traffic-light dash. That said, in a market filled with some very capable front-wheel-driven hot hatches, the idea of having more fun in a conservatively powered rear-wheel-drive coupé hasn’t always been an easy one to sell. Certainly, in order for the 86 to properly show off its genuine budget sportscar credentials, conditions including traffic, corner apexes and (preferably) run-off areas need to be considered.
Port Elizabeth’s Celso Scribante kart track, for example, proved more than suitable for a refresher course on just how much fun can be had in an 86.
The line-up has been refreshed, including the cabin where there are build-quality improvements and the standard fitment of a touch-screen audio system, with optional sat-nav.
A total of 86 Limited Edition units gain (somewhat garish) black-and-red Alcantara leather upholstery with matching red-leather highlighting on the steering wheel, gearlever and handbrake. These models are easily recognisable on the road thanks to their revised front bumper design and (not subtle) larger rear wing.
While it takes some confidence heading into hot hatch-occupied territories sporting a rear wing the size of the one on the Limited Edition with no additional power under the bonnet, it’s hard not to notice a hint of the legendary Supra in the new range-topping 86. Also, given the number of aftermarket engine modifications available for the Subaru-sourced horizontally opposed 2,0-litre engine, what are the odds on all 86 units retaining their original 147 kW/205 N.m outputs?
Revisions to the 86’s suspension, including new mounts, oil seals and guide bushings, as well as retuned dampers, has resulted in a significant improvement to not only the car’s high-speed stability but also – and most notably – its everyday ride quality.
With modern hot hatches like the Ford Fiesta ST and Peugeot 208 GTi offering arguably more usable (and attainable) levels of driver enjoyment, it’s easy to forget just how much entertainment a well-balanced (in terms of performance and weight distribution) rear-wheel-drive car can offer. In its ideal environment, the Toyota 86 remains one of the purest and most thrilling “affordable” motoring experiences on the market.
